Video: Chad Mendes, Nik Lentz clash ahead of UFC on FOX 9

Video: Chad Mendes, Nik Lentz clash ahead of UFC on FOX 9

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The betting public doesn’t seem to think Chad Mendes vs. Nik Lentz is a very competitive fight. Lentz doesn’t feel the same, and at Thursday’s pre-UFC on FOX 9 press conference, he made sure Mendes knew it.

“There’s no doubt that Mendes is a good fighter, but I truly think I’m one of the best fighters in the world,” Lentz said. “If I didn’t say that and I didn’t believe that, then why the hell would I even be here?”

Lentz (24-5-2 MMA, 8-2-1 UFC) and Mendes (15-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) meet on the main card of Saturday’s UFC on FOX 9 event, which takes place at Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, Calif. The four-fight main card airs on FOX.

The betting public has pushed Mendes up to astronomical levels, installing him as a 9-to-1 favorite, but Lentz believes there’s an upset in the making. And his confidence has irked Mendes, which was evident at the pre-fight function.

“I’ve got to be honest: I don’t like the guy,” Mendes said. “I think this is going to be a great fight. I’m excited.”

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